The improving job prospects represent a dramatic turnaround from the days of layoffs only a few short years ago.

"For us who are just coming into the teaching profession, it has been kind of a weight lifted," said Dawn Moorhouse, who is hoping to be a fifth-grade teacher. "You know, looking to start our career and finally get it going."

The district is also hiring classified staff, including school nurses, bus drivers and food service workers.

Other districts are also hiring. In Modesto, the Stanislaus County Office of Education has announced open positions.

There are several reasons for the improved outlook, said Dr. Brandon Krueger, the district's associate superintendent for human resources.

Through the so-called Local Control Funding Formula enacted in 2013, the state gives schools money in new ways and requires smaller class sizes, which increases the need for teachers, Krueger said.

There was also Proposition 30, which restored funding to schools following years of budget cuts. And in Elk Grove, there is new growth, with plans for more housing developments and schools.

"I'm over the moon with excitement to be staffing again, actually recruiting, going to colleges and universities," Krueger said.